RESCUE-ONLY DEADLINE CLOSE OF BUSINESS Monday April 27, 2026 Must be pulled by a partnered rescue Name: Zuko Animal ID: A896559 Age: 6 years Weight:79 lbs. Web Link: 24petconnect.com/PimaAdoptablePets/Details/PIMA/A896559 About: Meet Zuko — a striking 6-year-old white pittie with a signature tan patch under his left eye that only adds to his charm. This handsome boy has been through a lot recently and is looking for a calm, committed home where he can truly settle in and feel safe. Zuko originally came to PACC as a stray after being found running loose in a neighborhood, where he thought it was a fun game to chase kids on skateboards. Because of this, he’ll need a family that can help him learn safer ways to interact with the world and understand that chasing people or moving objects like bikes and skateboards isn’t okay. Through his microchip, we were able to learn more about his past. Zuko spent the last six years with his previous owner, who unfortunately could no longer keep him due to moving out of town. While that transition has been hard on Zuko, it also gave us insight into the kind of home where he’ll do best. Zuko is a loyal and affectionate dog who bonds deeply with his people. Once you’re “his person,” he’ll want to be right by your side, soaking up love and giving it right back. He does, however, have some guarding tendencies and experiences separation anxiety, so he’ll thrive in a home with minimal people and low foot traffic. He isn’t comfortable with visitors, so his future family should be prepared to manage introductions carefully or provide him with a safe, quiet space away from guests. In the shelter, Zuko has been understandably nervous—new smells, loud noises, and constant activity can be overwhelming for any dog. With time, patience, and consistency, he has the potential to decompress and show his true, loving personality. Zuko is also selective with other dogs and would do best as the only pet in the home. Dog parks or busy environments with other animals won’t be a good fit for him. However, with a dedicated owner willing to invest in training and structure, Zuko has the potential to continue learning and growing. He already knows how to use a doggy door and has a great foundation to build on. What he needs now is someone committed to helping him feel secure, continue his training, and advocate for his needs. Zuko isn’t for everyone—but for the right person, he has all the makings of a deeply devoted and loving companion. Adoption Process: All interested parties must meet the dog at PACC before their deadline. Some dogs may also require an introduction to any dogs they may potentially live with. Once introductions are complete and if the IP has decided this dog may be a good fit, the process is as follows: Interested parties: • Must visit PACC before the COB Monday April 27, 2026 deadline to meet with an adoption counselor who will go over notes and introduce you to the dog. • Are encouraged to reach out to a rescue group ASAP (even before coming to PACC), to start the rescue approval process. Please have the rescue contact PACC at PACC.UrgentDogs@pima.gov if approved to pull. • If an IP has not already contacted a rescue, PACC will notify all partnered rescue groups of an interested party and request their assistance. Once you have come to PACC to meet with the dog and determined that you’d like to move forward, your information will be sent to partnered rescue groups. If a rescue group is interested and feels they may be able to pull, they will then reach out to IPs. Collaboration with Rescue Groups: • Rescue groups are encouraged to reach out to PACC immediately if they will pull this animal into their rescue (and if there are requirements: Interested adoptive party, spay/neuter if not already completed, etc.) • Rescue groups are encouraged to start their adoption process with any interested parties who have contacted them directly and email PACC at PACC.UrgentDogs@pima.gov. Please note that it is ultimately up to the rescue group's discretion to decide whether to proceed with adoption. HOME MANAGEMENT PLAN: No Other Dogs: • Zuko is not suitable for a home with other dogs. • Reason: seen in shelter; altercation that resulted in a latch on altercation. In previous home was not exposed to other animals. • Management: They should be the only dog in the household. Avoid dog parks, group walks, or introductions to unfamiliar dogs to maintain safety and reduce stress. • Behaviors could improve with proper management and/or professional training. Resource Guards Attention From People: • Zuko may guard attention or affection from certain people, particularly those they are bonded to. • Muzzle Training: Muzzle training is strongly recommended for all new introductions to ensure safety and reduce stress for both Zuko and others. • Professional Support: Establish clear boundaries early and seek guidance from a qualified trainer to help manage and modify guarding behavior. • Management at Home: Create a calm, designated space where they can relax when guests arrive or when attention is divided. Avoid scolding or punishing guarding behaviors - focus on redirection and rewarding calm, appropriate responses. • Recognize Warning Signals: Watch for signs that they are becoming uncomfortable, such as stiffening, growling, or placing themselves between people. These behaviors should be respected by giving space and calmly redirecting their focus. Separation Anxiety: • Zuko may experience stress or anxiety when left alone, which can result in vocalization, pacing, or destructive behaviors. • Crate Training: Proper crate training can provide a safe space and help prevent destructive behaviors when unsupervised. • Enrichment & Comfort: Provide mental stimulation through frozen kongs, puzzle toys, or other enrichment items. Background noise, such as calming music or television, can also help reduce stress. • Gradual Independence: Practice short departures and slowly increase alone time to build their comfort level.